Delhi-NCR woke up to damp streets and cool breezes on February 20, 2023, as light rain and strong winds swept across the city, leading to much-needed relief from rising temperatures and improving air quality. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the weather conditions were influenced by an active Western Disturbance over northern Pakistan, which has brought light rainfall to several states including Punjab and Haryana.
Before the rain, Delhi had been unusually warm, with the maximum temperature recorded at 28.4°C on February 19, four degrees above normal. Humidity levels fluctuated between 29% and 97%, making the weather feel more oppressive for residents. The IMD had forecast cloudy weather and intermittent drizzle to continue until the afternoon of February 20, accompanied by winds gusting at speeds of 20 to 30 km/h.
Reports from the CPCB indicated marked improvements in air quality as rainfall began. On February 20, the Air Quality Index (AQI) was measured at 181, placing it within the 'moderate' category. For reference, AQI levels from 0 to 50 are considered 'good', 51 to 100 'satisfactory', and 101 to 200 'moderate'. During the previous week, the AQI had reached higher figures, touching 180 prior to the rainfall.
Experts have noted relief from pollutants due to the rain, explaining, "Despite the rain, Delhi’s air quality remained moderate," as reported by CPCB. The environmental authorities revised their earlier gloomy forecasts, attributing the temporary drop in pollution levels to the precipitation and winds. Nonetheless, they cautioned, "while rain and winds may offer temporary relief, pollution levels could rise again as temperatures increase." This highlights the city's challenging battle against air pollution.
The rainfall over Delhi has been relatively mild but is projected to provide about 5 mm, according to Skymet Weather, which anticipates continuous rain across the region. Earlier this month, Delhi had received only 0.5 mm of rain, and this latest development is seen as significant amid the typically dry winter season.
Following the shower, many parts of Delhi-NCR felt the drop in temperature, with immersive coolness setting the day’s tone. The rain is expected to continue its effect on the air quality at least temporarily. On February 21, the IMD predicts clearer skies and increasing temperatures again, reaching between 26°C to 29°C throughout the week. Minimum temperatures will hover between 10°C and 14°C.
According to reports, the rain not only affects Delhi's climate but is part of broader weather patterns. The IMD also warned of heavy rainfall potential for several northeastern states such as Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and Meghalaya due to cyclonic conditions developing over the Bay of Bengal during the week, highlighting the diverse impacts of meteorological phenomena on India’s weather.
With the weather gradually stabilizing, residents of Delhi can expect fluctuated weather conditions with chances of brief spells of resurgence of rain through the upcoming weeks. Many will welcome this as it improves their comfort and aids the air quality efforts dominated by regulatory measures aimed at limiting pollution.
The anticipated rise of temperature post-rain indicates the fluctuated nature of Delhi’s winter, bringing some challenges alongside relief. With persistent monitoring from environmental experts and agencies such as the IMD and CPCB, Delhi residents remain hopeful for sustained weather patterns conducive to improving air quality.
Regardless of the slight rain, measures remain active to mitigate air pollution. The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) continues to be enforced, permitting authorities to implement actions at various stages based on air quality metrics.
This week has showcased the potential of weather patterns to alter air quality and temperatures dramatically, serving as a reminder of the interconnectedness of environmental phenomena. The residents of Delhi-NCR may brace for ups and downs as the winter progresses, but for now, the pitter-patter of rain provides hope and relief.